The Chautauqua County Department of Planning and Development is excited to announce the launch of applications for Tourism Product Development Grant Program.
Donor Name: Chautauqua County
State: New York
County: Chautauqua County (NY)
Type of Grant: Grant
Deadline: 10/01/2023
Size of the Grant: $2,500 to $10,000
Grant Duration: 3 years
Details:
The Tourism Product Development Grant Program is funded through the County’s 5% occupancy or “bed tax” for the rental of lodging units within the County. 60 cents from every dollar (3%) of the revenue that is generated from this tax is utilized to increase tourism, conventions, trade shows, special events, and other directly related or supporting activities including businesses in the county. A portion of the 3% occupancy tax is allocated to provide grants for projects that will achieve and/or support special tourism product and event development initiatives.
Through this grant program, the County seeks to assist in catalyzing opportunities that promote or support the development of distinct themes or significant events and attractions that enhance the level of visitor experience, and ultimately the number of visitors to the County. Programs and initiatives should help create awareness of Chautauqua County as a place to visit and/or improve the likelihood of repeat visits to the area. A key objective for the future of Chautauqua County’s tourism industry is to create and promote products and experiences that will attract more visitors, particularly for overnight visits and in the pre- and post-summer seasons.
Types of Projects
A portion of the Occupancy Tax is intended to provide grants for projects that will achieve and/or support the following types of projects:
- Event Development and Marketing Projects
- New or enhanced events that are non-duplicative, unique, and demonstrate appeal and outreach to visitors from outside the County
- New or enhanced marketing activities aimed at stimulating additional overnight visits to the County.
- Attraction/Destination Development and Enhancement Projects
- Predevelopment: Feasibility studies; conceptual planning; small area plans; business plans; cost analysis; design; pre-engineering; engineering; and, grant writing
- Development: Acquisition of property or fixed assets; construction; and working capital
Funding Information
- Project awards typically range from $2,500 to $10,000, and will not exceed $10,000
- Awardees may only receive funding for up to three years for a specific project, and must reapply each year for said funding.
Eligibility Criteria
Applications for the 3% Tourism Product Development Grant Program may be submitted by various groups and organizations, including: not-for-profits, governments, businesses/corporations, public or private schools, and all landowners of Chautauqua County.
For more information, visit Chautauqua County.
